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Tres Trapi: Aruba's Turtle Snorkeling Paradise

Discover Aruba's underwater wonders: snorkel with sea turtles at the unique rocky cove of Tres Trapi, a must-visit spot on the island's northwest coast.

Tres Trapi, meaning 'three steps' in Papiamento, is a small cove on Aruba's northwest coast, renowned for its excellent snorkeling and frequent sea turtle sightings. With limited sandy beach, it's more of a swimming and snorkeling destination, accessed by unique rock-carved steps.

A brief summary to Tres Trapi

  • Noord, AW

Local tips

  • Arrive early (6 AM - 11 AM) for the best chance to see sea turtles and avoid crowds.
  • Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the sharp rocks and slippery steps.
  • Bring your own snorkeling gear, as rentals may not be readily available.
  • Pack a picnic and plenty of water, as there are no facilities or vendors on site.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the high-rise hotel area in Noord, drive north along the coast on L.G. Smith Blvd. Tres Trapi is located between Boca Catalina and Malmok Beach. Look for a small parking area on the left side of the road, near the distinctive rock steps. Parking is free. Be aware that the lot can be bumpy.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Arubus route L10A to the Malmok Beach or Boca Catalina stop. From either bus stop, it's a short walk (less than 10 minutes) to Tres Trapi. A single bus fare is $3 USD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Noord. A taxi ride from the Palm Beach area to Tres Trapi will take approximately 10 minutes. Taxi fares in Aruba are based on destination and not metered. The estimated fare is $14 USD.

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Discover more about Tres Trapi

Tres Trapi isn't your typical Aruban beach with expansive sands; instead, it's a unique rocky cove that offers incredible snorkeling opportunities, especially for those hoping to swim with sea turtles. The name, meaning 'three steps,' comes from the steps carved into the rock that provide access to the water. Located on the northwest coast of Aruba, just north of Malmok Beach and south of Boca Catalina, Tres Trapi is easily accessible and a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. The cove is relatively small, providing a more intimate experience compared to the island's larger beaches. The main draw of Tres Trapi is the snorkeling. The clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, but the sea turtles are the stars of the show. Snorkelers can often spot them feeding on the seagrass just beyond the buoys. Besides turtles, you might see colorful fish and cushion sea stars. The water depth ranges from shallow near the shore to about 10-15 feet further out, making it suitable for various skill levels. While the snorkeling is the main attraction, the cove itself has limited amenities. There's a small parking area and some shade, but no restrooms, showers, or food vendors. The rocky shoreline isn't ideal for lounging, so it's best to come prepared for swimming and snorkeling. Water shoes are recommended for navigating the rocky steps and shore. Tres Trapi can get crowded, especially during peak hours and on weekends. To avoid the crowds and increase your chances of seeing turtles, visit early in the morning. Remember to respect the marine environment by not touching or disturbing the turtles or other sea life. Also, use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs.

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